Helpful tips for working with multiple recruiters


Working with multiple recruiters seems like the best way to improve your chances of getting a job. By gaining new connections, clients and job opportunities through each recruitment agency, you end up with a greater possibility for the job… right?

Not always. Here are some things to consider when you are working with more than one recruitment agency.

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1          Having your CV submitted twice may get you blacklisted

With some companies, if the same candidates’ CV is submitted twice, the system will kick the CV out entirely. Having your CV submitted for the same position through different recruitment agencies will not help you get the job.

2          Ask the recruiter to consult you before submitting your CV for a position

You should politely mention that you are working with other recruiters and ask them to contact you for approval before submitting your CV for a position. For instance, if one recruiter finds a similar position that matches your job preferences, they may submit your CV and let you know afterwards. However, you’ll want to review the job description before the submission to make sure that you haven’t applied for the position already.

3          Try to avoid applying directly with the company and a recruitment agency

Normally, if you have already applied for the position through the company, they will not consider you as a candidate through a recruitment agency. Speak to the recruiter about the possibilities of you being considered if you have already applied through the company. If the recruiter says yes, then you can agree to submit your CV. However, applying directly through a recruiter is a great way to get your CV on top of the stack, as recruiters work closely with Human Resources.

4          Sign a “Right to Represent Agreement” if requested

Sometimes, if a recruiter knows that multiple recruiters are working with a candidate, they will ask you to sign an agreement stating that you are working with them on this position. This can protect you if recruiters send your CV without your knowledge or consent. An unethical recruiter will submit your CV from a job board, and only contact you if an interview is requested. Sending a candidate’s CV without their consent is not condoned by any honest recruitment agency. If a candidate finds out that their CV has been sent for a position by a recruitment agency that they are not working with, they can contact the agency and request them to withdraw their CV.

5          Keep track of all the jobs you’ve applied for

Keep a record of all the job positions you have applied for along with the names of the recruitment agencies, contact information for the recruiter, a description of the position you applied for, the client (if not confidential), the location of the position, the pay rate agreed to, the date your CV was sent, and the date you were told you’d hear back from the recruiter.

6          Compare any new job opportunities to your list

When a recruiter provides you with a new opportunity, it is wise to compare it to the list to ensure that you have not already applied for that position with another recruiter. Always be honest with the recruiter about the other opportunities that you have been applied for.

7          Remember that two job postings for the same position may not be identical

Recruiters create their own job posting, highlighting key points from the client’s original job post. If you are unsure if the position is the same as the one you have applied for, send the description to the recruiter so they can review it. If necessary, contact the first recruiter and ask for more details before allowing the second recruiter to send your CV. If they will release to you, the name of the hiring manager is a good way to be sure.

8          What happens when two recruiters contact you simultaneously about the same position.

Here you need to choose the recruitment agency that is the best fit. Each recruitment agency has their own core skills. Consider the following points:

  • Which firm has a stronger relationship with the client?
  • Which recruitment agency is a better match – does one agency typically often recruit in this field.
  • How much time does each recruiter spend with you and how much details do they share about the position?
  • What is your previous experience with each recruitment agency?

If you interact with multiple recruitment agencies while job searching, always make sure to use them strategically. Always be honest with the recruiters about how many other agencies are involved in your search. Honesty and organisation are your best bet to that great job opportunity.